TRAUMA PREVENTION

Starting An Exercise Routine Additional Resources • Seek your doctor’s approval before starting a new Many resources are available for transportation, meals and exercise routine. Start slow, wear the proper shoes and social services. For other fall prevention resources, please drink plenty of water. visit ODPS.com and locate the Elderly Fall Prevention • If you experience any chest pain/pressure, dizziness or Resource Guide in the Resource section under the division shortness of breath, stop your exercise routine and notify of EMS. your doctor immediately. • Consider participating in activities such as walking, Hamilton & Butler County In-Home light weight lifting, dancing, yard work, and Modification Consultants strengthening exercises. Whole Home Modifications Certified Aging in Place professionals provide products Common From Falls such as grab bars, aluminum access ramps, and accessible Injuries resulting from falls are the leading cause of bath, kitchen and other necessary modifications. Call for adults over 65 years of age. (513) 482-5100 or visit wholehome.org.

Hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries are the most Rebuild Independence serious fall-related injuries. Certified Aging in Place specialists identify areas that need improvement to help you to remain safely in your home. Hip Fractures Call (513) 276-0515 or visit rebuildindependence.com. • 95% of hip fractures are caused by falls. • Hip fractures normally require hospitalization for up to Handypro Cincinnati a week and placement in a rehabilitation or nursing Professional handymen focus on all your repair and home facility. improvement needs, including home modifications for seniors and disabled individuals. For a free estimate call Traumatic Brain Injuries (513) 258-2490 or visit handypro.com/oh-cincinnati.html. • Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries among older adults. Butler County Senior Services • Traumatic brain injuries are caused by any bump or blow Offers minor repairs and safety upgrades. Visit Fall Prevention Guide to the head interrupting normal function of the brain butlercountyohio.org/elderlyservices or call (ranging from mild to severe). (513) 868-9281 or 1 (800) 215-5305. for Older Adults

• Any fall involvingUC Health your / West head Chester must Hospital be followed up by a CMYK Injury Prevention Program doctor immediately. If you need further assistance with locating resources for fall prevention please call the UC Health Trauma Services injury prevention coordinator at (513) 584-5382.

UCHealth.com ©9/14 Senior Fall Facts Steps To Prevent Falls Home Modification Checklist Every 15 seconds, an older adult is seen in a hospital 1. Improve physical activity. þ Place handrails on both sides of stairwell. emergency department for a fall-related injury. • Exercise improves your overall health including your þ Place proper lighting throughout home (especially heart, lungs, and circulation. Many activities can a bedside lamp that is easily accessible.) Older adult falls are the leading cause of death for reduce your risk of by improving strength, þ Reduce clutter on floor near walking paths. Ohioans over 65 and the number one cause of fatal and , coordination, and flexibility. þ Remove throw rugs or attach to floor with non-fatal injuries. This resource guide provides helpful tips no-slip strips. to prevent falls and serious injuries. 2. Review with your pharmacist þ Attach grab bars in restroom and shower. or doctor. þ Use non-skid mats on floor and in bathtub. Fall Risk Factors • Some medications may make you feel dizzy or sleepy. þ Use nightlights in hallways and bedrooms. The risk for falling and sustaining and injury increases with Speak with your doctor about different options for þ Keep electrical/phone cords away from age. Some risk factors can be modified to decrease the usage. walking areas. risk of falling. • Due to the increased risk for injury while taking þ Keep items you use often within reach. • History of Falling blood thinners, all falls must be evaluated by a þ Do not stand on chairs. • Poor Vision and Hearing doctor immediately. þ Position a telephone so that it can be easily • Fear of Falling reached from the floor. • Advanced Age 3. Annual vision and hearing screenings • Physical Inactivity • Poor vision and hearing increases your risk for falling. • Lower Body Weakness • Home Hazards 4. Home safety After a fall, one in five adults • Medications Causing Dizziness • Simple changes to your home environment can keep will have a serious injury such • Difficulties with and Balance you safe and allow you to live independently. • Chronic Conditions (Arthritis, Diabetes, ) as head trauma or fracture.

What To Do After A Fall Stay calm. Try not to panic. If you are able, crawl to a couch or chair and pull yourself up slowly. If you are alone, crawl or slide to the nearest telephone and call 911.